This small complex of bunkers on the top of Mont de Sombre has an incredible view over the surrounding area and out to sea so not surprisingly was created as an observation and target distance measuring site for nearby artillery batteries.
Today there is little left to see that isn’t overgrown or buried, but what is left can be visited with care.
Over the autumn and winter of 2024, work was taking place on the construction of a new cycle/walking path linking the nearby villages of Escalles and Hervelinghen and this has meant the loss of the Michelmannstand to the rear of the position.
A R501 shelter nearby has also been buried under piles of construction materials and waste, as has a small communications cable bunker. The former building once contained some original artwork painted by the soldiers stationed here.
Just a single wall is all that can be seen of the concrete water storage reservoir, but that is in a poor state too.
At the front of the site the buildings have suffered less due to the area being used for shooting and you can see a R501 shelter, a partially buried Michelmannstand, an observation post, and a Vf58c Tobruk which gives you an incredible view over the landscape below.
None of the constructions are accessible inside any longer due to the dense undergrowth, even in winter, but you can follow the extensive trench system between the buildings. The observation post has two entrances – one leading to the main viewing part and the other to an annex room joined by a short tunnel.
One building which can be visited is a rare R658 multi-chambered water storage bunker which stands at the rear of the site hidden in a small section of woodland. Due to its remote location, the building itself is in good condition inside, although it has recently been used by migrants and there are now piles of rubbish, discarded clothing, and sleeping bags in the rooms so is best avoided.